Nestled in the heart of the Amyndeon region in northwestern Greece, Alpha Estate stands as a beacon of innovation and quality in the world of winemaking. Established in 1997 by viticulturist Makis Mavridis and chemist-oenologist Angelos Iatridis, the estate has become synonymous with the revival and global recognition of Greek wines.
Angelos Iatridis, with his extensive experience both in Greece and internationally, identified the unique potential of the Amyndeon terroir—a semi-continental climate moderated by nearby lakes and characterized by sandy, low-fertility soils ideal for viticulture. His commitment to sustainable practices has been instrumental in shaping the estate’s philosophy. Under his guidance, Alpha Estate has implemented environmentally friendly techniques, including the use of cover crops, composting, and integrated pest management. The vineyards are certified under European Union AGRO 2-1 & AGRO 2-2 standards for sustainable viticulture, with certain blocks undergoing organic conversion.
The establishment of Alpha Estate has had a profound impact on the Amyndeon region. By producing high-quality wines that have garnered international acclaim, the estate has spotlighted Amyndeon as a premier wine-producing area. This recognition has invigorated local viticulture, encouraging other producers to adopt sustainable practices and focus on quality, thereby elevating the region’s overall reputation in the global wine community.
Alpha Estate continues to push the boundaries of Greek winemaking through ongoing research and experimentation. A notable recent endeavor involves the study of Xinomavro clones. The estate planted an experimental block in 2016 to analyze the performance of various clones under controlled conditions. This research led to the release of two single-clone wines from the 2021 vintage—clone 19 and clone 37. Although production was limited to 300 bottles each, available exclusively at the winery, these wines showcase the distinct characteristics of each clone and underscore Alpha Estate’s dedication to innovation.
Among the estate’s diverse portfolio, the Alpha Estate Hedgehog Xinomavro 2021 stands out. Sourced from vines aged between 6 to 37 years, this wine exemplifies the purity and vibrancy of the Xinomavro grape. With its light ruby hue and notes of sweet and sour cherry complemented by hints of tomato leaf, it offers a harmonious balance of freshness and structure, making it both approachable in its youth and capable of aging gracefully.
Alpha Estate’s unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation continues to elevate Greek wine on the international stage, solidifying its role as a leader in the industry and a proud ambassador of the Amyndeon region’s rich viticultural heritage. To explore some of Alpha Estate’s releases, visit the greekazon.com wine section!